Globalstar launches Internet service

San Francisco -– Vodafone Group Plc subsidiaries Globalstar USA, Globalstar Caribbean, and Globalstar Canada launched Globalstar Data Services with Internet Access.

This marks the first packet data service available through the Globalstar network and opens a range of possible consumer and industrial applications.

Globalstar Internet Access, the first commercial application of this data service, makes it possible to use the Globalstar phone like a wireless modem when away from a traditional landline or out of cellular range.

The current model Globalstar GSP-1600 phone by Qualcomm attaches via data cable to a laptop computer or a personal digital assistant (PDA), enabling remote access to applications such as Internet sites, search engines, most consumer email and instant messaging. The service runs through the user’s existing software and applications with no change of e-mail address, passwords, browser or home page.

“Data is a significant advance in Globalstar’s capability and I expect that new and creative alternative uses will develop for this technology in the future,” said Dennis McSweeney, vice president and general manager for Globalstar USA. “The remote user has had few resources for communications and we intend to break that wide open.”

Programming modifications have been made to the gateways in Smith Falls, Ontario, Canada; High River, Alberta, Canada; Clifton, Texas, United States; and the new gateway in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico. These modifications allow the gateways to recognize and transmit packetized data in addition to voice through Globalstar satellite systems using Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) technology.

Globalstar Data Service transfers data at 9600 bits per second.

Internet Access data service is billed at the same rate per minute as voice service, with no additional monthly charge. Data specific billing programs will be considered as the service develops.